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Zoloft is a drug used to treat depression. Also called sertraline, this drug is of the type known as an SSRI – selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Besides for depression, it is often prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, premenstrual dysphonic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post traumatic stress disorder.

Just as with any medication, there are some side effects that are possible when taking Zoloft and drugs like it. Not everyone will suffer from these side effects. Birth defects are listed among the most severe of these possible side effects if Zoloft is taken while pregnant, particularly in the later stages of the pregnancy. Studies have shown that the use of Zoloft or other SSRIs can be linked to a variety of newborn birth defects. These birth defects include heart problems, cleft palate, and pulmonary hypertension.

All those who take Zoloft are at risk for certain side effects.

Common Zoloft Side Effects

Zoloft was put through clinical trials by the FDA before it was released that revealed a number of common side effects:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased sweating
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach

If any of these side effects last a long time or get worse over time, patients should speak to their doctor or the pharmacist.

More Serious Side Effects of Zoloft

There are some serious, although rare side effects that patients may experience:

• Weakness and/or cramps in the muscles
• Easy bleeding and bruising
• Decrease sexual interest and/or ability
• Weight loss

Other rare side effects include black and/or bloody stools or unusual vomiting. Patients who experience this should see a doctor immediately.

Zoloft Birth Defects

Possible birth defects include:

Pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) – This is one of the more serious infant birth defects that can be linked to the mother taking Zoloft while pregnant. PPHN is a lung condition characterized by high pressure inside the blood vessels of the lungs plus serious problems moving the proper amount of oxygen through the blood. It can occur immediately after birth. Symptoms of PPHN are rapid breathing and a rapid heart rate, along with irritated skin.

Cleft lip/cleft palate – These are known as craniofacial birth defects and they can result in developmental issues on the palate or upper lip. It can present as a small opening on the lip or a large gap in the roof of the mouth and nose. Research has shown that taking Zoloft during pregnancy can cause this birth defect.

Heart defects – Taking SSRIs like Zoloft while pregnant can raise the chances of babies being born with heart defects. These possible heart defects include coractation of the aorta, abnormal heart valves, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, and atrial septal defects.

Other possible birth defects – Besides those mentioned above, there are other possible birth defects that Zoloft and other SSRIs can cause:

• Cranial birth defects
• Abdominal effects
• Club foot
• Neural tube defects

Less serious side effects that newborn babies may have are things like issues with feeding, trouble breathing, seizures, and tremors.